POLOKWANE – Following the announcement that the Polokwane Municipality is proceeding with its plans to establish an eco-estate on a part of the local game reserve, concerns are raised regarding the municipality’s ability to manage the facility in a sustainable and profitable manner.

Read more: Polokwane’s nature-lovers up in arms over proposed eco-estate

Some of the facilities in the reserve are in a poor state of repair and the municipality is still spending more than R700 000 per year in safeguarding their rhinos on a farm near Bela-Bela, with no prospect of residents ever seeing them in the reserve again.

DA councillor in the municipality, Mariette Pretorius recently conducted an oversight visit to the facilities.

“During the inspection that I recently conducted at the Polokwane Game Reserve, I was shocked to witness the absolute deterioration of the Kudu House which once was a beautiful facility for overnight accommodation and functions. This is a facility that could have brought in revenue for the municipality at more or less R1 200 per night over a couple of years and apparently this facility was not booked for more than two years because of the state of the property,” Pretorius said and explained that the Polokwane Game Reserve is one of the very few game reserves in the country that is situated very close to a city and which can be used by long distance runners and cyclists too.

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According to Pretorius, some of the vegetation in the reserve is endangered and does not exist anywhere in the country, and scientists have done valuable research in the reserve on the fauna and flora.

“This facility could have been used by them for overnight accommodation as well,” she added.

“We are fully committed to revitalising and enhancing the facilities within the game reserve to restore its appeal and maximise revenue generation and to this end, a contractor has already been appointed to undertake comprehensive upgrades across all facilities, including the Kudu House, ensuring that the reserve regains its status as a prime destination for visitors. These renovations will address maintenance concerns and improve the overall visitor experience,” spokesperson for the municipality, Thipa Selala responded.

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“Furthermore, the accommodation at the gate has been successfully renovated and is now in excellent condition, with only the final furnishing stage remaining before it can be reopened for public use.”

The Dries Abrahamse Lapa is also receiving attention as part of the broader infrastructure improvement plan,” he added.

“The rhinos remain safe and in good health. The municipality is ensuring their well-being and they will be housed in Polokwane once enhanced safety and security measures are in place to protect these endangered species,” Selala repeated the response that was obtained for the last five years.

Nature lovers wishing to be recognised as affected or interested parties in the eco-estate project, can still do so until March 18 by contacting the consultant for the applicant, Caiphus Mukwevho at caiphus.mukwevho@gmail.com or on 082 269 4524.